how do I know if my Honda CR-V Fifth Generation (2017-2022) struts are worn out

Honda CR-V 6th Gen (2023-Present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

626 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to identify and replace worn struts in your Honda CR-V (2017-2022). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always use jack stands when lifting the vehicle; never rely solely on a hydraulic jack.
•Allow the vehicle to cool before working on suspension components.

Symptoms

•Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
•Difficulty in steering or a feeling of looseness in the steering wheel
•Uneven tire wear or cupping on tires
•Nose-diving during braking
•Increased road noise or vibrations
•Vehicle leaning or swaying during turns

Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the struts for any visible leaks, damage, or corrosion.
2
Push down firmly on each corner of the vehicle and release; observe how many times the vehicle bounces before settling.
3
Drive over a rough road and listen for any knocking or rattling sounds from the struts.
4
Look for uneven tire wear patterns that could indicate strut issues.
5
Evaluate the steering feel and response while driving, noting any looseness or vagueness.
6
Observe the suspension movement during acceleration and braking to check for excessive body roll or dive.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Strut spring compressor
•Safety glasses

Parts Required

•Replacement struts (front and/or rear)
•New strut mounts (if needed)
•Sway bar link (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Check the struts for any visible leaks, damage, or corrosion.
2
Push down firmly on each corner of the vehicle and release; observe how many times the vehicle bounces before settling.
3
Drive over a rough road and listen for any knocking or rattling sounds from the struts.
4
Look for uneven tire wear patterns that could indicate strut issues.
5
Evaluate the steering feel and response while driving, noting any looseness or vagueness.
6
Observe the suspension movement during acceleration and braking to check for excessive body roll or dive.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, strut spring compressor, and safety glasses.
Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
Allow the vehicle to cool if it has been recently driven.

2. Lift the Vehicle

Use a jack to raise the front or rear end of the vehicle (depending on which strut is being replaced).
Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure stability.

3. Remove the Strut Assembly

Front Strut:
- Remove the wheel using a socket set.
- Disconnect the sway bar link from the strut.
- Remove the bolts securing the strut to the steering knuckle.
- Unbolt the top mounting nuts in the engine bay.
- Carefully remove the strut assembly from the vehicle.
Rear Strut:
- Remove the rear wheel.
- Unbolt the lower strut mount from the rear axle.
- Remove the top bolts securing the strut to the body.
- Extract the strut from the assembly.

4. Replace the Strut

Use a strut spring compressor to compress the coil spring if reusing the spring.
Remove the top mount from the old strut and install it onto the new strut.
Carefully decompress the spring and ensure it is seated correctly on the new strut.

5. Reinstall the Strut Assembly

Insert the new strut into the vehicle in reverse order of removal.
Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque values.
Reattach the sway bar link and ensure all components are secure.

6. Reassemble and Lower the Vehicle

Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle to the ground and then fully tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.